Economy, Politics, West Bengal

West Bengal to Raise Rs 81,972 Crore Loan, Mamata Faces Criticism Over Rising Debt

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 13, 2025, Kolkata : The West Bengal government has announced plans to raise a new loan of Rs 81,972 crore from the market, as revealed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a press conference following the budget session on Wednesday afternoon. This announcement comes as part of the last full budget of the Mamata government before the 2026 assembly elections.


The state’s Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya, presented the full budget in the assembly on the same day, followed by a press conference with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Bhattacharya, and former Finance Minister Amit Mitra. In the conference, Mamata Banerjee discussed the state’s financial outlook and the necessity of taking this significant loan.

However, the announcement has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, particularly CPI(M) State Secretary Mohammad Salim. Salim questioned the rationale behind the increasing debt, stating that the state’s loan has risen fourfold under the Trinamool Congress government. He expressed concern over where the money from this debt is going, and whether there are tangible benefits for the people of the state.

“What is happening with so much debt? Where is the money from this debt going? What are the obligations? Loans are being taken from the market at high interest rates to satisfy hobbies,” Salim remarked. He further criticized the government’s lack of focus on addressing unemployment, asking, “How many jobs have been created, how many employment plans are there? We don’t know the details.”

Salim also took aim at the state’s housing scheme, sarcastically commenting on the ongoing discussions surrounding it, suggesting that the government’s priorities are misplaced. The opposition’s criticism highlights the growing concerns over West Bengal’s financial management as the state prepares for the upcoming elections.
National, Politics

Jaya Bachchan Voices Concerns Over Bollywood’s Neglect in Union Budget 2025 Amid Parliamentary Debate

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 13, 2025, Delhi:  In the ongoing budget discussions in the Delhi Parliament, veteran actress and Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan has raised significant concerns about the lack of attention given to the film industry in the Union Budget for 2025. Although she stepped away from acting years ago and prefers to stay out of the limelight, Bachchan has now taken a stand for the future of Bollywood.


The actress-turned-politician, known for her usually composed demeanor, became visibly upset during her speech in Parliament on Wednesday. She directed pointed questions at the government, expressing her frustration with the treatment of the film industry. Bachchan argued that Bollywood is often exploited for political gain, yet remains overlooked when it comes to meaningful support. “Bollywood is always used for vested interests, but in real time, Bollywood is neglected,” she stated passionately.

In her impassioned remarks, Bachchan highlighted Bollywood’s substantial contribution to the Indian economy, particularly its tax revenue. “Bollywood pays the highest tax in India, yet they are killing the film industry,” she declared, her voice brimming with emotion. She raised alarm over the decline of single-screen cinemas, many of which are being shut down, and pointed to the rising costs of movie tickets as a key factor driving audiences away from theatres.

Bachchan took aim at the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on cinema tickets, urging the government to consider removing it to help revive the industry. “Watching movies has become so expensive for everyone. Now stop GST on these. Do you want to kill the cinema industry?” she asked, demanding immediate attention to the issue.

Her call for a thorough discussion on the matter was clear as she concluded with a plea for the government to recognize the significant role of the cinema industry in Indian culture and economy. “You are completely ignoring the cinema industry,” Bachchan lamented, urging for a dedicated debate on the future of Bollywood in the upcoming budget sessions.

Her remarks have sparked conversations across the nation, underscoring the need for government action to protect and promote India’s film industry.
Politics, West Bengal

State Secretary of Asha Karmi Union Expresses Disappointment with State Budget’s Response to Workers’ Needs

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 13, 2025, Kolkata : In response to the state budget presented by Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya, on Wednesday, West Bengal Asha Karmi Union State Secretary, Ara Khatun, has voiced her dissatisfaction with the proposed measures. The budget outlined the allocation of Rs 200 crore for providing free smartphones to Asha Karmi and Anganwadi workers, a step that was welcomed initially. However, Khatun, who represents the union, expressed concerns that the announcement might not be enough to address the longstanding issues faced by these workers.


While the state government’s plan to distribute free smartphones to the workers was seen as a positive move, Khatun questioned whether it would be sufficient to meet the real needs of Asha Karmi and Anganwadi workers, especially with the upcoming assembly elections in view. “The demand for mobile phones has been our long-standing request, but we also sought reimbursement for the mobile recharge costs at the market rate,” she remarked, emphasizing that the proposed budget falls short in addressing the broader financial needs of the workers.

Khatun also raised concerns about the low compensation received by these workers, who are entrusted with a wide range of responsibilities, from health-related tasks to more manual labor, including maintaining the cleanliness of their workspaces. While the state budget proposed a 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees, Khatun pointed out that no similar promises were made for Asha Karmi and Anganwadi workers, who play a crucial role in public health and welfare but receive minimal respect and pay for their efforts.

She stressed the importance of recognizing the nature of the work these workers do, which extends beyond administrative tasks to vital public service. “The amount given to us is very little. But today, ASHA workers are busy with many important tasks,” Khatun stated, making it clear that the allocation for smartphones alone would not be enough to improve the working conditions or financial situation of these dedicated workers.

As the state budget is scrutinized by various groups, it remains to be seen whether the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led government will respond to these concerns before the upcoming elections.
West Bengal

Tragic Death of Housewife in Murshidabad: Unable to Repay Loan, Woman Jumps Under Moving Train

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 13, 2025, Kolkata : In a heartbreaking incident in Murshidabad, a 40-year-old housewife, Renu Bibi, tragically lost her life after jumping under a moving goods train. The incident occurred on the railway line between Nimtita and Sujanipara stations in the Kayadanga Notunpara area of Suti on the morning of February 13, 2025.

Renu Bibi, a mother of four, was reportedly struggling with family unrest caused by her inability to repay a bond loan installment. According to sources, the constant pressure from the unpaid loan led to her mental distress. On the morning of the incident, she tragically decided to take her life by jumping in front of the moving train around 9:30 am.

Police from the Suti Police Station and railway officials arrived at the scene shortly after the tragic event. Authorities confirmed that the impact of the train resulted in her body being severed. The family is devastated by the loss of the mother and wife, who had been facing emotional struggles due to financial difficulties.

The community has been left in shock over the tragedy, shedding light on the devastating effects of financial stress and the need for greater support for individuals facing emotional and financial hardships, especially those struggling with loan repayments and family pressures.

Regional

BSF Officer Dies, 4 Injured in Tragic Road Accident in Cooch Behar

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 13, 2025, Kolkata :   A tragic road accident in Cooch Behar claimed the life of a Border Security Force (BSF) officer and left four others seriously injured. The incident occurred on Wednesday night at the Kakribari overbridge area of Alipurduar Road when a BSF Bolero vehicle collided head-on with a passenger bus.

Local residents rushed to the scene after hearing the crash and immediately helped rescue the injured. The victims were quickly transported to Cooch Behar MJN Medical College Hospital, where one of the injured, identified as BSF jawan Hariyom Prakash, was later declared dead. The remaining injured, including a BSF doctor, are receiving treatment, with the doctor’s condition reported as critical. The doctor has been transferred to a private hospital in Cooch Behar for further care.

All the injured individuals are jawans from the 45th Battalion of Dhubri BSF, who had been assigned to a special mission in the Gopalpur sector of Cooch Behar when the accident took place. The cause of the collision is under investigation as authorities work to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic incident.

Economy, Politics, West Bengal

Chief Minister Discusses Future Reduction in Electricity Prices Amid Deucha-Pachami Coal Project

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, February 12, 2025: In a recent press conference following the state budget presentation, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed public concerns regarding electricity prices in the state, particularly those associated with the Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation (CESC). She expressed optimism about future reductions in electricity tariffs, attributing this potential decrease to the upcoming Deucha-Pachami coal mining project.


The Chief Minister explained that the coal extracted from the Deucha-Pachami area would be utilized to generate electricity for the next century, leading to a significant reduction in electricity costs. She stated, “The coal we will get from Deucha-Pachami, the electricity we will generate for 100 years… when the coal is produced… will come down a lot.” She further emphasized that even if the state government does not increase electricity prices, CESC has the autonomy to adjust rates, which has sometimes led to higher costs for consumers. She noted, “Even if the state government does not increase the electricity price, CESC increases it. People have to suffer a lot. That is not in our hands. It is an autonomous body.”

The Deucha-Pachami coal block, located in Birbhum district, is recognized as Asia’s largest and the world’s second-largest coal reserve. The state government has initiated the extraction process, aiming to commence mining operations promptly. The Chief Minister highlighted the project’s potential to create employment opportunities for approximately one lakh individuals, including those from the local communities. She mentioned, “We are creating this project for the next generation, so that they do not have to face load shedding for 100 years and so that the price of electricity does not increase… so that they get cheap electricity.”

In addition to the anticipated benefits of the Deucha-Pachami project, the Chief Minister outlined the state’s commitment to improving the living standards of the affected communities. She stated that compensation packages would include housing, vehicles, and the development of essential infrastructure such as schools, colleges, and hospitals in the area. She also mentioned the provision of compensation house-books to the landowners.

Despite these positive developments, the Chief Minister acknowledged the ongoing challenges related to electricity supply disruptions, particularly during the summer months. She expressed hope that the successful implementation of the Deucha-Pachami project would alleviate these issues, ensuring a more stable and affordable electricity supply for the residents of West Bengal.

The Deucha-Pachami coal project is expected to play a pivotal role in the state’s energy strategy, aiming to meet the growing demand for electricity while also fostering economic development and job creation in the region. The Chief Minister’s statements reflect a proactive approach to addressing energy concerns and enhancing the quality of life for the people of West Bengal.
Economy, Politics, West Bengal

Finance Minister Announces Rs 500 Crore Allocation for Ghatal Master Plan

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 12, 2025, Kolkata : In a significant move aimed at addressing the longstanding issue of flooding in the Ghatal sub-division of West Midnapore, Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya proposed an allocation of Rs 500 crore for the completion of the Ghatal Master Plan during the state budget presentation. The announcement was met with widespread optimism among the residents of Ghatal, who have long faced the consequences of seasonal flooding in the region.


The Finance Minister outlined that the entire Ghatal Master Plan would be completed within two years, and emphasized the importance of the state government’s proactive steps in mitigating the effects of river erosion. As part of the budget, the government has also allocated Rs 200 crore to tackle river erosion and introduced a new project titled “Nadi Bandhan” (River Bond), with a proposed budget of Rs 200 crore for its execution.

The Ghatal sub-division is particularly vulnerable to flooding due to its geographical layout. The Shilabati River flows through the town, but Ghatal itself is situated in a bowl-like depression, which results in water accumulating from all directions without an adequate drainage system. As a result, even a small amount of rainfall during the monsoon season causes devastating floods, severely affecting the local population.

The issue of flooding has been a major concern for residents and was a focal point during the last Lok Sabha elections in the Ghatal constituency. The Ghatal Master Plan was highlighted as a key solution to these recurring problems. The state government has repeatedly accused the central government of failing to cooperate in completing the plan, despite its importance.

During the election campaign, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in support of the Trinamool Congress candidate, actor Dev, made a strong pledge to ensure the state would take the lead in implementing the Ghatal Master Plan, even without central assistance. Following the announcement, the state began allocating funds for the project, with Rs 65 crore already earmarked for the construction of a 3.5 km-long guard wall.

In her address after presenting the budget, Mamata Banerjee reiterated the state’s commitment to addressing the flooding issue, announcing that a total of Rs 1500 crore would be spent on the Ghatal Master Plan, with an initial Rs 500 crore allocated this year. However, she also expressed disappointment over the central government’s lack of support for the initiative. As of now, Rs 340 crore of the initial Rs 500 crore has already been spent on the project.
Politics, West Bengal

Bengal Doctors Protest RG Kar Case, Salaries of 16 North Bengal Doctors Stopped for Absenteeism

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 12, 2025, Kolkata : The state of Bengal has been in turmoil following the RG Kar case, which has sparked widespread protests, particularly among the medical community. Doctors from various parts of Bengal, including many from North Bengal, have gathered in Kolkata to participate in the movement. The protests have been a response to the case involving Tilottama, and numerous doctors from Siliguri and other regions have traveled to the city to demand justice.


In the wake of these protests, the state has taken a controversial step by halting the salaries of 16 doctors from North Bengal. The doctors, allegedly, failed to fulfill their duties at the hospital, with reports claiming that they were absent day after day. Despite receiving notices asking for explanations regarding their absences, the doctors reportedly did not respond to the inquiries. Hospital principal Indrajit Saha has confirmed the situation, acknowledging that the doctors’ failure to attend work has led to this action.

Many doctors in North Bengal participated in a hunger strike demanding justice for Tilottama, with some even traveling to Kolkata from Siliguri to join the movement. These doctors, it is alleged, are angry with the government, and their participation in the protest has become a point of contention. It is suggested that their salaries have been stopped as retaliation for joining the movement without taking proper leave from their hospital duties.

Hospital authorities have, however, defended their stance, claiming that the doctors from North Bengal Medical College had formed two separate teams, each responsible for duty on alternating days. The rest of the time, these doctors allegedly practiced privately in Kolkata. The authorities have lodged complaints specifically against professors and doctors from several departments, including orthopedics, surgery, nephrology, obstetrics, and ophthalmology.

Due to their irregular attendance, 16 senior doctors will not be receiving their salaries for the month of January. This decision has sparked further debate, with critics questioning whether the government’s actions are an attempt to suppress activism within the medical community. The situation remains tense, and many are now waiting to see which direction these doctors will take in response to the salary stoppage and the ongoing protests surrounding the RG Kar case. 
Politics, West Bengal

BJP MP Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato Raises Concerns Over Partha Chatterjee’s Safety, Draws Parallels with Kishanji’s Death

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 12, 2025, Kolkata : BJP Member of Parliament Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of Partha Chatterjee, a senior leader from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), following the latter’s recent detention. Drawing a stark comparison with the controversial death of Maoist leader Kishanji, Mahato expressed fears that Chatterjee might face a similar fate while in custody. In a letter to West Bengal Governor CV Anand Bose, Mahato urged for increased security measures to protect Chatterjee, citing concerns about his safety while incarcerated.


Mahato’s comments followed a statement by Abhishek Banerjee, a key figure in the TMC, who had publicly acknowledged that Kishanji was killed in an encounter with the state police, rather than being arrested as was initially claimed. Mahato pointed to this admission and warned that Chatterjee’s life could be at risk, noting, “Please ensure that the condition of Partha in jail does not become like that of Kishanji.” His comments have sparked debate about the potential for high-profile figures, like Chatterjee, to be targeted while in custody, reflecting the intense political climate in the state.

The BJP MP also made it clear that he had received intelligence suggesting that Chatterjee’s survival could lead to further revelations. “If Partha is alive, many heads may come forward in the future,” he stated, hinting at the possible exposure of more people linked to the corruption cases surrounding the TMC leader. Mahato also suggested that Chatterjee could consider becoming a “Rajsakshi” (a state witness), implying that cooperating with investigations might reduce his culpability. He warned, however, that there would be no hiding from the sins Chatterjee had allegedly committed.

Another issue raised by Mahato was the circumstances surrounding Chatterjee’s recent medical treatment. Questions have been raised about why Chatterjee, who had been admitted to SSKM Hospital—traditionally the go-to hospital for prominent leaders and ministers in the state—was suddenly moved to a private hospital. Mahato used this development as a tool to emphasize his concerns over the handling of Chatterjee’s health and safety while in custody.

As the investigation into Chatterjee’s involvement in corruption cases continues, his fate remains a topic of political contention, with many watching closely for any signs of further developments. Mahato’s appeal to Governor Bose underscores the political tension and growing concerns over the safety and security of individuals caught in the state’s political and legal battles.
West Bengal

Tulsiberia Dargah Sharif to Host Three-Day Commemoration in Honor of Hazrat Pir Mr. Abdul Hamid Ali Khan (RA)

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 12, 2025, Kolkata : The Tulsiberia Dargah Sharif Committee, under the leadership of President MD Moktar, will organize a series of events over three days starting tomorrow to honor the memory of Hazrat Pir Mr. Abdul Hamid Ali Khan (RA) at Rajapur Police Station, Howrah Rural District. This annual program, rooted in tradition, is expected to draw millions of devotees, guests, and visitors from across India and abroad, according to Chip Gaddinshin and Moallim Dargah Sharif Committee Secretary Pirzada Rafiqul Islam Khan.


The event will feature a variety of activities, including religious, cultural, social, and medical programs, with local vendors setting up stalls offering thousands of jewelry items. The committee aims to create a unique, multifaceted program with a global impact. High school student Sirajam Monira expressed the event’s significance, emphasizing its role in spreading a message that resonates both in India and internationally.

Organized by Chirnabin’s Addiction Liberation and Rehabilitation Center, the event will be hosted by a group of distinguished speakers, including Pirzada Amirul Islam Khan, Pirzada Shahidul Islam Khan, and Pirzada Abedul Islam Khan. A wide range of activities will be carried out, such as discussions, religious programs, medical and awareness camps, as well as physical exercises and exhibitions.

Additionally, blood donation drives, cleanliness campaigns, and educational workshops will aim to increase awareness on various topics, including social responsibility and self-improvement. Notably, educational materials will be distributed to encourage students to pursue their studies and continue their personal development.

There will also be competitions centered around religious teachings, including discussions on the Holy Quran Sharif, Hadith Sharif, and the life and teachings of Pir Fakir Darvesh Oli Auliya Keram. Lucky participants will be awarded prizes such as clothes and food, while millions of people will be given Tabaruk (blessed food) and Shinni (a traditional offering).

The public interest in the event has continued to grow as the days progress, with well-wishers and social activists like Sheikh Rezaul Wahed Mohammad Monirul Haque Babu highlighting the increasing publicity and enthusiasm surrounding the event. This year’s Urush celebration promises to be a powerful and transformative experience for all involved.
Crime, Politics, West Bengal

Police Action Following Violent Clash Between Rival TMC Factions Over Illegal Sand Mining in Birbhum

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 12, 2025, Kolkata : In an alarming turn of events in Birbhum, two factions of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) clashed on Tuesday, resulting in serious injuries to a party worker. The confrontation, which took place in Jamalpur, Kankartala, was linked to a longstanding dispute over control of the illegal sand mining business along the Ajay River. The incident involved bomb explosions between rival groups, leaving Sheikh Saktar Ali severely injured, with his right leg amputated as a result. His brother, Babu Sheikh, also sustained splinter injuries.


In the wake of the violence, Kankartala Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Purnendubikash Das was removed from his duties on Wednesday, less than 24 hours after the clash, and has been confined to the barracks until further orders. His replacement, Dubrajpur Circle Inspector Subhasish Haldar, has been tasked with overseeing the Kankartala police station on an interim basis. District Superintendent of Police Amandeep has made it clear that maintaining law and order in the area is of utmost importance.

The clash, which involved explosive devices allegedly fired between two rival groups fighting for control over the illegal sand mining operations, has raised concerns about the deepening power struggle within the ruling TMC. According to sources involved in the investigation, the dispute centers around two local leaders, Kest and Kajal Sheikh, who are believed to have orchestrated the violence.

By Wednesday afternoon, a total of nine individuals, including Swapan Sen, a TMC member from the Khayrasole community block unit, had been arrested. All nine suspects will be presented before the Dubrajpur court. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities focusing on those directly responsible for the bombings. However, concerns persist as the two main leaders, despite their involvement in the violence, remain under the protection of the government.

BJP legislator from Dubrajpur, Anup Saha, has stated that the clash was a result of an ongoing rivalry between two factions of the TMC fighting for dominance over the illegal sand trade. Saha’s remarks suggest that the incident was a direct consequence of internal party strife, which has spilled over into violent confrontations.

In contrast, Moloy Mukherjee, the vice-president of the TMC’s district unit, dismissed the allegations, asserting that the clash had no connection to the party’s internal divisions. Mukherjee emphasized that the TMC does not condone such actions and assured that law enforcement is taking decisive action against those involved. “Nobody will be spared,” he said.

The situation in Birbhum has drawn attention to the growing issue of illegal sand mining in the region and the violent conflicts that often arise over control of this lucrative business. As investigations continue, the authorities face mounting pressure to address the underlying issues and prevent further escalation of violence in the area.
National, Politics

BJP Criticizes Kejriwal’s “Shishmahal,” Declares New CM Will Not Stay There

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 11, 2025, New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has written to the Lieutenant Governor, informing him that the newly elected BJP Chief Minister will not take residence in the bungalow at 6 Flagstaff Road, which the party has dubbed the “Shishmahal of sins.” The letter, signed by BJP leader Virendra, alleges that Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, constructed this luxurious residence through “encroachment” on the land of four other government houses. The BJP has called for the restoration of the area to its original state and stated that the new government will decide the future use of the bungalow. The property is currently under investigation in relation to the excise corruption case.


The BJP has sharply criticized Kejriwal for the lavish expenses allegedly incurred to decorate the residence. The Prime Minister has previously complained that while the nation was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, Kejriwal was focused on building what they call the “Shishmahal.” Kejriwal, before assuming office, had pledged not to take a government bungalow, but the BJP claims he went back on that promise by constructing the lavish residence.

The BJP alleges that Kejriwal’s residence, which was originally built on less than 10,000 square meters of land, was illegally expanded into a luxurious compound of 50,000 square meters. The BJP President has also detailed the land that has been used for this expansion. According to the party, the Chief Minister’s new residence is a symbol of extravagance, with funds supposedly misused during a time when the nation was facing a devastating pandemic.

The BJP’s stance is clear: if their Chief Minister were to come into power and reside in the very bungalow that Kejriwal built, it would raise serious questions about the image of the saffron party, especially after running an aggressive campaign against Kejriwal’s alleged misuse of resources. The party insists that the new government will not condone such lavishness and will ensure that public resources are used responsibly.
Politics, West Bengal

Subhendu Adhikari Demands NIA Investigation into Kalyani Firecracker Factory Explosion, Criticizes State Government for Negligence

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 11, 2025, Kolkata :  In the aftermath of the tragic explosion at a firecracker factory in Kalyani, State Opposition Leader Subhendu Adhikari has called for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the incident. Adhikari visited the site on Tuesday and personally handed over a check of Rs 2 lakh 1 thousand to the families of those who died in the explosion, underscoring the severity of the situation. He also took the opportunity to criticize the state government, particularly the Chief Minister, for what he called a failure to hold the responsible authorities accountable.


Speaking at the scene, Adhikari condemned the lack of adequate safety measures and the state’s handling of the incident. He pointed out the proximity of pucca houses to the factory, expressing that the loss of life could have been far greater. “There are pucca houses all around. The number of casualties could have increased further,” he stated. Adhikari also raised concerns about the government’s purported efforts to maintain law and order, saying, “The state government created a story of appointing village police and civic volunteers for 14 years to gather information about neighborhood activities. What is the result of that?”

He went on to emphasize the BJP’s commitment to supporting the affected families, noting that the donation was a gesture to show that the value of human life cannot be quantified in monetary terms. “Today, the BJP will give Rs 2 lakh 1 thousand to the families of the deceased to show them that the price of life is not money,” Adhikari remarked. He further criticized the state government for offering inadequate compensation in such a tragic event, saying, “If a person dies from consuming adulterated liquor, you should pay 2 lakh taka. This death occurred due to the negligence and utter irresponsibility of your police, your party, and the municipality run by your party. You should have given at least Rs 50 lakh as compensation and arrested the municipality chairman and the police responsible.”

Subhendu Adhikari’s strong statements highlight his growing opposition to the state government’s handling of public safety issues, especially in the wake of tragic incidents like the Kalyani explosion. His call for an NIA investigation adds a new layer of scrutiny to the incident, suggesting a deeper probe into the causes of the disaster and the possible negligence that led to it. The BJP’s criticism of the state government is expected to intensify as the investigation into the explosion continues. 
Politics, West Bengal

State Makes Property Tax Mandatory in Rural Areas, Implements Self-Assessment Method

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 11, 2025, Kolkata :  In a move aimed at curbing property tax evasion, the state government has made property tax mandatory across both urban and rural areas. The newly introduced self-assessment method, which was already in practice in all municipalities, will now be extended to the rural areas through an initiative by the Panchayat Department. This method will be applicable during the registration of new properties, such as land and houses.


Under the new system, when a person purchases a new property and registers it, they will automatically receive a self-assessment notice along with the registration documents. The buyer will be required to complete the self-assessment process; failure to do so will result in legal action from the state. This initiative aims to stop the growing trend of property tax evasion, which has been a concern for local authorities.

An official from the Panchayat Department explained, “The moment a buyer purchases a house or land and gets it registered, all the information related to that property will be sent to the department. After that, the buyer will be prompted to complete the self-assessment. The department will continue to send reminders until the process is completed.” To ensure compliance, the Gram Panchayat will also be tasked with overseeing the self-assessment process. They will verify the information provided by the buyers, leaving no room for tax evasion.

Additionally, the Panchayat Department recently introduced an online property tax submission system to streamline the process. However, reports suggest that the self-assessment method has not been fully implemented in some areas. In response, the Panchayat Department will now collaborate with the Registration and Stamp Duty Department to ensure that the system is effectively enforced.

Once this system is properly implemented across both Panchayat areas and municipalities, the entire state will fall under the self-assessment property tax framework. Officials are optimistic that, if successful, this initiative will significantly increase the state’s revenue, creating a more efficient and accountable system for property tax collection.
Crime, Politics, West Bengal

CBI Faces Crucial Moment in Primary Recruitment Corruption Case as Sujoy Krishna Bhadra Appears in Court for Voice Sample Collection

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 11, 2025, Kolkata :  The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is facing mounting pressure in the ongoing primary recruitment corruption case, with significant developments unfolding today. Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, known as “Kalighat’s uncle,” has appeared in court as part of the investigation, with his voice sample set to be collected in the presence of a judge. The collection of this sample is seen as a critical step in the case, as the CBI aims to verify and compare it with other existing evidence to strengthen its investigation.


Previously, Bhadra was ordered to appear in court but failed to comply, citing health reasons. However, after a prolonged absence, he has now presented himself in court, leading many to believe that this development could mark a turning point for the CBI. The voice sample collection is expected to provide crucial information that will aid the investigation into the alleged recruitment corruption.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that the CBI plans to collect Bhadra’s voice sample today, which will then be compared with other samples already in their possession. The outcome of this comparison is expected to play a pivotal role in the direction of the investigation and could offer significant insights into the primary recruitment corruption case.

Bhadra’s legal troubles have been ongoing for some time. He was recently granted bail in connection with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) case, which is also linked to the broader corruption scandal. Despite a history of health-related excuses, including a period spent in jail and treatment at SSKM Hospital, Bhadra has finally appeared before the court, signaling a potential breakthrough for the CBI.

The investigation into the primary recruitment corruption case is now heavily reliant on the voice sample collection from Bhadra. The CBI’s next steps will likely be determined by the results of this analysis, and many are watching closely to see if this will bring the case to a decisive moment.
Politics, West Bengal

Factional Conflict in Birbhum Escalates as Bombings Mark Power Struggle Within Trinamool

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 11, 2025, Kolkata :  The district of Birbhum, known for its deep political ties to West Bengal’s ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), is witnessing a violent escalation of internal factionalism. The long-standing cold war within the party has now taken a deadly turn, with bomb blasts rocking the area. The conflict, analysts suggest, revolves around control over various local mafias, particularly the lucrative sand money business.

Birbhum has long been associated with Keshtar Mandal, a key figure in the region and a close ally of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Mandal’s influence had grown during his time in jail, earning him the title of the “uncrowned king” of Birbhum. Now, after his release, tensions are simmering again, and the question remains whether this internal struggle within Trinamool will ever subside.

The situation in Birbhum is increasingly volatile, with rival factions clashing over power and influence. On Tuesday, the area around Jamalpur, in Kankartala police station jurisdiction, erupted into violence following a bombing incident. Local sources suggest that two Trinamool groups were fighting over the division of sand money, leading to the explosive confrontation. The blasts left the surrounding area in chaos, with thick smoke rising from the scene.

The bombs, which have become disturbingly common in the region, are reportedly being used freely by the factions vying for dominance. The police, observers say, have largely remained silent, leaving locals to contend with the violence on their own. Despite the clear evidence of internal discord, Trinamool district president Kajal Sheikh has denied any division within the party. According to Sheikh, “There is only one group of Trinamool Congress in Birbhum, and that is the group led by Mamata Banerjee. We all do Trinamool.”

However, sources on the ground suggest that the bombing incident was the work of two key figures—Swapan Sen from Sheikh’s faction and Ujjwal Haque Quaderi, a member of the core committee loyal to Anubrata Mandal. The violence has already resulted in injury, with reports stating that a grassroots worker lost a leg due to one of the explosions.

This escalating violence signals a deepening power struggle within Trinamool Congress, where factions fight not only for control of political turf but also for lucrative illegal businesses. The people of Birbhum, caught in the crossfire, are left helpless, with little indication that the violence will cease anytime soon.

National, Politics, West Bengal

BJP Sets Sights on Bengal, Trinamool Dismisses 2026 Prospects in Retort

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 10, 2025, Kolkata : Following its parting with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has now shifted its focus to West Bengal, gearing up for the 2026 elections. The Union Education Minister has openly stated that the BJP’s attention is firmly on Bengal this time, signaling their intent to make significant political inroads. However, the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the state remains resolutely unimpressed and has shown little interest in entertaining the BJP’s demands.


In a spirited counter to the BJP’s ambitions, Serampore Member of Parliament, Kalyan Banerjee, issued a firm rebuttal to the BJP’s claims of a political surge in the state. He emphasized that the BJP would not hold any substantial influence in Bengal come the 2026 elections. Banerjee remarked, “BJP will have no place in West Bengal, rest assured. They will not secure 30 seats in Bengal in 2026, and they will not be able to provide the opposition leader.”

The political rivalry between the BJP and TMC has escalated with each side taking jabs at the other. The BJP’s strategy to challenge the ruling party in Bengal has been met with strong resistance, with Trinamool leaders asserting their dominance and dismissing the BJP’s future prospects in the state. As the 2026 elections draw nearer, the political tension in Bengal continues to simmer, with both parties positioning themselves for what promises to be a heated contest.
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